President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea has publicly apologized for his controversial attempt to impose martial law, which triggered a political storm. In a televised address on Saturday, Yoon expressed deep regret for the turmoil caused by his actions, pledged never to resort to martial law again, and stated his willingness to face any legal or political repercussions.
Political Fallout Within the PPP
The fallout was swift within Yoon’s own People Power Party (PPP). Party leader Han Dong-hun called for Yoon’s resignation, stating he was unfit for office. While the opposition filed a motion to impeach Yoon, the PPP refrained from backing impeachment during a party meeting, highlighting a fractured political landscape.
Impeachment Motion and Allegations
The impeachment motion accuses Yoon of a self-coup, citing the deployment of heavily armed troops to disrupt a parliamentary vote just hours after martial law was declared. The opposition, holding 192 of the National Assembly’s 300 seats, needs at least eight PPP votes to pass the motion.
Han alleged that during the brief imposition of martial law, Yoon ordered the arrest of senior lawmakers, including himself, opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, and National Assembly speaker Woo Won Shik. The arrests were purportedly carried out under charges of “anti-state activities.”
Defense Ministry Actions
The defense ministry has suspended several key officials in the wake of the crisis, including Yeo In-hyung, the defense counterintelligence commander. Yoon’s former defense minister, Kim Yong Hyun, is under investigation for rebellion-related charges after allegedly advising Yoon to impose martial law. Acting Defense Minister Kim Seon Ho testified to parliament that military units had been deployed to the National Assembly on Yoon’s orders.
International Concerns
The crisis has raised alarm among key allies such as Japan and the United States, prompting questions about South Korea’s political stability and the rule of law under Yoon’s administration.
What’s Next for Yoon?
As South Korea awaits the parliamentary vote on Yoon’s impeachment, the country stands at a political crossroads. Yoon’s apology, while a significant gesture, may not be enough to repair the deep divisions his actions have caused.
